Genital Warts: What it is and What to Do

The virus produces unmistakable lesions on the surface of the skin located at different parts of the genitalia. In males, the lesions are located at the penis, at the area between the penis and the scrotum, and around the anus.

In women, the lesions can be found at the vulva, perennial area, inside the vagina, and at the cervix. This is a highly infectious infection, posing a 60% possibility of getting infected after sexual contact with an infected person.

Cause:

Genital warts are caused by HPV 6 and 11.

This virus is spread by means of the following:

** Unprotected sex with multiple partners** Unprotected sex with a partner who is infected** Sharing of sex toys

This infection is common among the age 17-33. In children, the virus does not cross the placental barrier or the amniotic sac.

If there is presence of genital warts in children, it is probably transmitted as the baby passes through the birth canal of an infected mother. Otherwise, suspect the probability of sexual abuse.

Signs and Symptoms

** Presence of lesions that are cauliflower in shape found in clusters. Some lesions are flat and sometimes indistinct.

There are also some lesions that are raised and can cause obstruction. These lesions can have the same color as your skin or grayish in appearance.

** Painful urination if the lesion blocks the urinary opening.

** Bleeding during and after intercourse.

** Itchiness or discomfort around the genital or perennial area.

** Abnormal findings in Pap’s smear.

Do not trust on the presence of these signs and symptoms. Most of the cases of people having genital warts are actually infected with the virus without showing any of the classical signs and symptoms.

As long as the person is carrying the virus, you will still be infected with genital herpes.

Treatment

Your doctor will recommend several treatment options for genital warts. Creams, ointments, and surgery are often utilized to remove them.

Over the counter creams or ointments do not work as they do not have the proper ingredient to eradicate the lesion.

** Ointments and creams – there are different ointments and creams available with prescription for genital warts.

~ Imiquimod (Aldara) – this cream will help you fight the virus by boosting your immune system. The problem with this medication is that it predisposes you to fungal infection and local irritation.

~ Podophyllin and podofilox (Condylox) – this medication destroys genital wart tissue and must only be applied externally.

Podophyllin must be administered by your doctor for it has a very potent ingredient that can destroy healthy tissue. Regular follow-up must be observed to monitor the effects of the medication.

** Cryosurgery – it is the application of a chemical on the wart that can cause it to freeze off. The principle is very similar to the effects of frostbite.

** Electrocautery – also similar with cryosurgery, only with the use of electricity to burn off wart tissue.

** Laser surgery – if the lesions prove to be too many and very hard to treat for other types of surgery, this is the final option. These forms of treatment are only effective in removing and sealing the lesions of genital warts.

The virus will still live in your system, and can still re-occur and infect other people. To protect yourself from genital warts, practice abstinence or wear a condom.

A vaccine called Gardasil is significantly effective in protecting you from cervical cancer and is 70% effective in preventing genital warts.

If you suspect that you have genital warts, it is important to go immediately to the doctor for prompt medical treatment.

Warren Tattersall has been a full time nutritional consultant for over a decade and works with people all over the world to help them improve their health, increase their personal energy levels and to use supplements to assist with diet related health issues.